>> Thursday, March 22, 2012

The fruits we place in our grocery cart vary from season to season, but bananas are the mainstay of our family's healthy diet. Maybe not the most locavore of us, that's for sure -- as they travel from extremely faraway places to rest on our kitchen counter -- but they're nutritious, affordable, plentiful, and freezable.

We usually buy this many of 'em. MAYBE $3, but probably not even that much.

"A good source of carbs, bananas also contain potassium, which runners lose through sweating and help regulate muscle contraction and prevent cramping. Bananas are also considered a "safe" pre-run food because they're unlikely to cause gastrointestinal issues." (running.about.com)

"Bananas contain prebiotics, the indigestible fiber that promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. Healthy intestinal flora produces B vitamins and vitamin K, which are also found in bananas. These nutrients are important for energy metabolism and blood clotting, respectively. Rich in antioxidants and vitamins A, C and E, bananas help counter the damaging effects of free radicals." (Running Times)

Here are some of our favorite recipes for breakfast, lunch and dinner: